As the maintenance cost and effort of natural grass continue to rise, artificial grass has become a popular
choice for gardens, terraces, landscaping projects and sports fields. However, the market is full of
products with very different price and quality levels. Choosing the right artificial grass is critical if you
want a long service life and a good return on your investment.
So what really separates a high-quality artificial grass from the rest? Below, you’ll find the most reliable
ways to evaluate artificial grass quality before you buy.
1. Yarn (Fibre) Quality and Material
The most important component of artificial grass is the yarn (fibre). The type of yarn used directly affects
the durability, softness and life span of the product.
- PE (Polyethylene): Soft, skin-friendly and very close to the look of natural grass. It is considered the best option for gardens, terraces and landscaping.
- PP (Polypropylene): Slightly stiffer and usually more affordable. Suitable for small decorative areas or low-traffic zones.
- Nylon: Offers the highest durability and resilience, often used for professional sports pitches.
As a rule of thumb, high-quality artificial grass uses polyethylene yarn or a PE-based blend. The surface
should feel soft yet resilient to the touch, with fibres that do not easily break or crack.
2. Pile Density (Dtex, Stitch Rate and Gauge)
The density of the grass is one of the key technical indicators of quality. Dense grass not only looks more
lush, but also withstands wear for a longer period.
- Dtex: Indicates the thickness/weight of the yarn. A higher dtex usually means a stronger, fuller fibre.
- Stitch Rate: The number of stitches per linear metre. A higher stitch rate means a denser product.
- Gauge: The distance between rows of stitches. A lower gauge value means rows are closer together and the surface is more compact.
For decorative garden and landscaping applications, a medium to high density is ideal as it provides both
comfort and durability. Sports applications typically require even higher density and dtex values to endure
intensive use.
3. Backing Quality and Coating
The backing — the underside of the artificial grass — plays a crucial role in the long-term performance of
the product. A strong, well-constructed backing keeps fibres in place and supports good drainage.
In a quality artificial grass, you will typically find:
- Double backing (for example PP cloth plus a reinforcing mesh) for extra strength.
- A top layer of latex or polyurethane (PU) coating to secure the yarn.
PU coating is generally more durable and dimensionally stable than standard latex. It also improves water
permeability, helping to prevent mould, bad odours and backing deformation over time. When you flip the
product over, the backing should look even, well-coated and robust, not patchy or brittle.
4. UV Resistance and Colour Stability
Because artificial grass is exposed to sunlight for years, UV resistance is a must. Products with low or no
UV protection tend to fade, harden and become brittle in a short time.
Signs of good UV performance include:
- Manufacturer claims or warranty against colour fading for at least several years.
- A natural, non-neon green colour (extremely shiny or very bright greens can be a sign of low-grade raw material).
- Fibres that remain flexible and do not crack after prolonged exposure to light and heat.
5. Simple Touch & Flex Tests You Can Do Yourself
You don’t need special equipment to spot basic quality differences. A few quick tests with your hands will
already tell you a lot:
- Touch Test: High-quality artificial grass feels soft, elastic and comfortable, not overly plastic or abrasive.
- Pull Test: Gently pull a few fibres. They should not come out or break easily.
- Bend Test: Bend the fibres between your fingers. Quality yarn bends without cracking or turning white.
- Recovery Test: Press the fibres flat with your hand and release. Good grass should recover most of its shape within a few seconds.
Quality Artificial Grass Is a Long-Term Investment
The quality of artificial grass is defined by a combination of yarn material, density, backing structure, UV
resistance and how the product behaves when you touch and flex it. Choosing a better-quality product pays off
in the long run with a more natural look, higher comfort and lower maintenance.
Before you make your purchase, always check the technical specifications, ask for a sample and work with a
reliable manufacturer or supplier. That way, your artificial grass will continue to look fresh and green for
many years.